WWhen decorating for the holidays, create intimate spaces that make you want to stop for a closer look:  sheer and solid ribbons mixed on a Christmas tree, for example, or a garland of clear crystal-like shapes that come to life when the light hits them.

Another idea is to select a theme, anything from an unusual color combination (brown and gold decorations give the tree on the opposite page an Old World feel) to a salute to nature, with faux fruits spilling from Father Christmas’ gift bag and glitter-tipped pinecones on the tree and garland.

Christmas is a time to pull out all the stops, but to do it in inventive ways. We grouped white pillar candles on a console under an antiqued mirror, mixing the type of holders and using different candle lengths. On another table three glass-globe candleholders (groups of three are visually interesting), a glass candy dish topped with gossamer ribbon, and Father Christmas dressed in pale green lend a frosty feel.

A final tip: ornaments aren’t just for trees. Our crystal “Hope” ornament adds a dash of holiday spirit to the lid of an otherwise plain glass dish.  Look around your home and be creative.

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Christmas Gallery